Catheter Insertion Tool With Extendible Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implanting and removing intraurethral devices, such as catheters and stents, are complex operations that lack immediate confirmation of proper placement, risking patient complications due to misplacement or the need for additional procedures, and existing tools can cause catheters to buckle due to their flexible nature.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a catheter with a proximal and distal portion, an internal lumen, and an extendible element that transmits push, pull, and torque forces through the catheter, facilitated by an insertion tool with a tip member and a mechanism to apply axial forces, ensuring proper placement and rigidity during implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional insertion tool is used to push the catheter, then the catheter can be inserted into the urethra, but the catheter buckles due to its flexible nature
Solution Approach 1:
An extendible element (wire or rod) is introduced as an intermediary support structure within the catheter lumen. This element acts as a mediator between the insertion tool and the catheter body, providing internal support that prevents buckling while allowing the catheter to remain flexible for insertion. The extendible element can be extended through the catheter lumen to provide structural stability during the insertion process.
2Reliability
If separate tools are used for insertion and extraction, then the complex operation can be performed, but the procedure time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool is designed with multi-functionality to perform both insertion and extraction operations. The tool includes an extendible element that can be extended for insertion and retracted for extraction, allowing a single device to replace what were previously separate tools. This universal design reduces procedure time and complexity while maintaining the reliability of device placement accuracy through direct tactile feedback during the operation.
3Ease of operation
If the catheter is made flexible for easy insertion, then insertion is easier, but immediate confirmation of proper placement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates tactile feedback mechanisms where the extendible element provides direct physical feedback to the operator during insertion. The operator can feel through the extendible element whether the catheter is properly positioned, providing immediate confirmation of placement. This feedback loop allows the operator to verify correct positioning in real-time without requiring additional imaging or measurement procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for implanting a catheter in a urethra. The system includes a catheter having a valve disposed at a distal portion of the catheter. The valve may be operable in response to an external magnetic field. The system also includes a tool having a tip member extending into an opening at the distal portion of the catheter to couple the tool to the catheter. The system also includes an element extending from the tool. The catheter has an internal path that provides a conduit for the element to be extended through the valve to engage a proximal portion of the catheter. The tool is adapted use the element to stress the catheter and stiffen the catheter along the length of the catheter Stiffening the catheter facilitates implantation of the catheter in the urethra by enabling pull forces, push forces, and torque forces.